Jones is charged with an open count of murder for the death of Mary Abby Tucker, 33, following an incident June 23.

An autopsy reportedly showed Tucker died of multiple blunt force.

Jones reportedly told first responders on June 24 that Tucker slipped and struck her head in the shower at their Spencer Avenue apartment. The medical examiner concluded Tucker's injuries weren't characteristic of a fall in a bathtub.

The judge set the date after provisionally denying Jones' request to represent himself.

As part of the inquiry into Jones' request, the defendant said the only reason why he wanted to represent himself was so he could understand what was happening in court. Jones said he would often leave court and not know what happened.

Jones continued to say he had no problems with his court-appointed attorney, Jodea Foster, although Jones said Foster seemed patronizing at times.

Foster asked the court to exercise caution when asking questions that may discuss the relationship between attorney and counsel.

Judge Reilley called for a recess for Foster and Jones to speak in private. The judge said he was concerned about Jones' seemingly uncertain responses to some questions, especially because the defendant faces a maximum sentence of 59 years to life, if found guilty.

After the recess, the judge asked Jones if he still wanted to represent himself. The defendant asked if the judge was willing to explain what specific words meant during court.

Reilley said he hoped he was patient with all who appeared before his court, but the law didn't allow for special treatment of defendants representing themselves and they had to follow the same rules as attorneys.

The questioning continued briefly and Jones ultimately appeared indecisive when the judge asked a final time if he wanted to represent himself.

The judge said he was inclined to stop the inquiry and set the trial date.

While the trial date was being discussed, Jones again asked if he could represent himself. Reilley said no, for now. He said Foster would speak with Jones and they could revisit the matter later.

Outside of court, Foster said he has been speaking with Jones. He said the issue appears to be with the defendant's understanding of court proceedings.

Jones' mental competence has been a considerable issue in this case, culminating in a competency trial Dec. 19. At the end of that trial, Judge Kristen Lucena ruled Jones was competent after hearing testimony from three mental health doctors who evaluated the defendant. Lucena cited persuasive evidence from one doctor that it was highly probable that Jones was fabricating or exaggerating his symptoms.